The basics

What are those dresses the ladies are wearing? How do you sing a proper Ein Prosit? What’s the deal with these buttons? Fear not—we’ve got you covered with the basics of Oktoberfest.

Oooompah!

Traditions

While the decades have changed since our beginning, the traditions remain the same.

The songs

From our favorite german drinking song, to a diddy written JUST for our beautiful fest—with our handy guide you won’t miss an “Ein!” or a “Drei!”

The lederhosen

\ˈlā-dər-ˌhō-zᵊn\: leather shorts often with suspenders worn especially in Bavaria… and La Crosse

Traditionally worn by the royal family and grenadier corps, these leather shorts are both stylish and breathable. In recent years, common fest-goers have donned their own lederhosen to get the true Oktoberfest experience.

The dirndl

Dirndl come in all styles, from the waschdirndl for everyday wear to the festtagsdirndl for special occasions. Whatever the style, careful how you tie your apron, ladies. The apron bow lets everybody know your marital status and availability. Tie it on the right-hand side and you’re taken. Wearing it on the left means you’re single and ready to mingle. Don’t care to broadcast whether you’re in the market? Just tie it in the middle.

Admission

The 4-day pass

The 4-Day admission pass is your ticket to all things fest, all four days. Advanced price – $10, starting Sept. 26 – $15. Children 12 and under are free.

Single day tickets

Single day tickets for admission into the Southside Grounds are available day-of at the Fest office (sorry, no online sales). Good news, no pass or tickets are required for the Northside Grounds. Just walk in and FEST!

Ticketed events

Some Oktoberfest events require tickets in addition to the admission button. Tickets for these events are available online or at the Oktoberfest office.

Zigge, zagge, zigge, zagge

Fest grounds

One fest. Two locations. Part of what makes us das beste!

The Southside Grounds are our main location. Here you’ll find the Oktoberfest office, two music venues and our biergarten. The Northside Grounds are located at Copeland park. This location offers one music/entertainment venue, food vendors and our Oktoberfest carnival. Getting between the two grounds is easy and safe with our shuttle service.